White kidney Bean or Common Bean known to the scientific world as Phaseolus vulgaris is valued for its properties of inhibiting starch digesting enzyme 'Alpha-amylase'. It is a sub-erect or twining annual herb, native grown extensively throughout the warm regions of the world.

The alpha-amylase inhibitor from Phaseolus vulgaris is a protein composed of two glycosylated promoters. Inhibition of the alpha-amylase prevents the breakdown of complex carbohydrates into simple and easily absorbed carbohydrates. As reduced amount of alpha-amylase is available for breakdown, the complex carbohydrate travels through the body without being assimilated and is excreted from the body instead of being converted into storage fat. Due to inhibition of starch breakdown they are indirectly helpful in weight loss.